Construction workers' heat illnesses are influenced by more than just extreme temperatures, as various other factors also play a role in exacerbating the risk. Thus, understanding these additional elements is crucial for implementing effective measures to protect workers' health and safety on construction sites.
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Other Causes of Construction Workers' Heat Illnesses
According to the findings of a study conducted by experts at the University of New Mexico, in comparison to the general population, construction workers had a 13 times increased risk of dying from heat-related illnesses.
Prof. Fabiano Amorim, an exercise science instructor at UNM and the study's primary author, stated that worker safety depends on environmental temperature, work intensity, and the quality of clothing and equipment utilized. If you are working on the most challenging task, you will generate more heat, which will cause your body temperature to rise, and you will continue to receive heat from the surrounding environment.
The researchers observed the body temperatures of 32 building employees at a job site in Kansas City, Missouri, over three days in July for their study. All of the participants took a pill that was designed to monitor their internal temperatures.
Despite the 'relatively moderate' average external temperature of 88° F during the three days, 43% of the employees experienced body temperatures that peaked at 100.4° F. In addition, nearly 60% of the employees were dehydrated when they arrived at work.
Based on the press release issued by the University of New Mexico, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) deems this to be the minimum level for an enhanced heat stress risk and noted that the level of effort required for the job as well as the quality of clothes and types of equipment used by the worker also influences heat-related illness.
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Heat-Related Illness
An individual's internal core temperature can be affected by various external conditions in their working environment. These factors include air temperature, humidity, airflow, and clothing. Heat-related illnesses, including heat stress, heat strain, heat stroke, and heat rashes, can occur when the body cannot manage its core body's temperature. The effects of each of these diseases are felt throughout the body.
Moreover, heat stress is a medical emergency representing the most severe manifestation of heat-related ailments. When the body's temperature management mechanism fails, it can cause the body to reach a dangerously high temperature, which is often higher than 104° F.
Cognitive dysfunction, impaired speech, loss of consciousness, dry, hot skin, tachycardia, and convulsions are among the symptoms. In the absence of prompt medical attention, heat stroke can result in significant organ damage or even death.
Therefore, it is necessary to take breaks regularly, especially during times of extreme heat. When employees need to take a break, their employers should provide them with a shaded or air-conditioned location. In addition, proper hydration is essential. Even if they do not feel thirsty, workers should be ensured that they have access to cool water and should be encouraged to drink frequently.
Furthermore, employers must consider modifying work schedules to avoid the hottest portions of the day. More challenging work can be scheduled for the cooler early morning hours, while less strenuous work can be reserved for warmer times. A further option is to use technological innovations.
For instance, cooling vests and moisture-wicking fabrics can assist in temperature regulation, whereas wearable technology that monitors vital signs can offer early warning signs of heat stress.
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